GYPSY MOTH CATERPILLARS
Description of Caterpillars
Gypsy moth caterpillars are olive-brown worms with dark stripes and clusters of hairs on the sides of each segment. The caterpillars are 1/16 inch long at hatching, but grow rapidly to about 2-1/2 inches long before pupating (turn into a moth). Adult male moths are brown and the adult females are white. Although many homeowners recognize the destructive caterpillars, relatively few recognize the adults from the many other moths of similar coloration.back to the list
Vulnerable Plants
- azaleas
- shade trees
- apple trees
- apricot trees
- peach trees
- pear trees
Life Cycle
Adult female moths can't fly; instead, they release powerful pheromones to draw the males to their location. After mating, hairy masses of yellowish or light brown eggs are laid. The eggs hatch in April in this region of North Carolina. Damage in the form of large holes in the foliage becomes noticable by the time the caterpillars are about one inch long. Although damage may escape notice when the worms first hatch, the hungry caterpillars devour large quantities of foliage and can completely defoliate infested trees. The caterpillars are quite mobile and can travel freely to new food sources.back to the list
Control Options,
This is a reportable insect here in North Carolina and its spread is trying to be contained. Telephone Extension Forest Resources (919) 515-3386, or the NCDA Plant Pest Division at (919) 733-6930, or NCDNR Division of Forest Resources (919) 733-2162.back to the list
Mark Blevins , Horticulture Agent
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